Irish Coffee is a unique combination of strong coffee and smooth whiskey. Its rich flavors that warm up any chilly day. This drink is always a great choice for cozy evenings.
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Irish coffee recipe
Irish Coffee is a classic cocktail. It combines hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and whipped cream. The drink is popular for its comforting warmth and unique blend of flavors. It is a common choice in cozy cafes and festive gatherings.
This cocktail was created by Joe Sheridan in the 1940s. Sheridan was the head chef at the Foynes Flying Boat terminal. He added whiskey to the coffee to welcome travelers. He humorously called it “Irish coffee.” The drink became popular in the U.S. in the 1950s.
The beverage is cherished for its flavor. It is also valued for its cultural significance. It brings people together, especially during colder months and festive occasions. Here is how to make the Irish coffee:
Irish coffee
Ingredients
- 1 cup 240 ml freshly brewed hot coffee
- 1 ½ oz 45 ml Irish whiskey
- 2 tsp brown sugar or adjust to taste
- 2 tbsp heavy cream lightly whipped
Instructions
- Prepare a fresh, hot cup of your favorite coffee.
- Add the brown sugar to a heatproof glass or mug and pour in the coffee. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Pour in the Irish whiskey and stir gently.
- Lightly whip the cream until it thickens slightly but is still pourable. Gently pour it over the back of a spoon so it floats on top of the coffee.
- Do not stir! Sip the coffee through the layer of cream for the classic Irish coffee experience.
Notes
- For an authentic touch, warm the glass or mug by rinsing it with hot water before assembling the drink.
- Use good-quality Irish whiskey for the best flavor, such as Jameson or Bushmills.
Nutrition
How to pair
Irish Coffee pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.
- Sweet Treats
- Biscotti or cookies’ sweetness complements the bitter coffee and rich whiskey flavors.
- Dark chocolate or chocolate truffles work well. Their bitterness enhances the coffee’s flavor.
- Desserts with caramel, toffee, or vanilla flavors such as crème brûlée, flan, or bread pudding pair beautifully.
- Coffee cake and croissants serve as a light accompaniment. They balance the richness of the cocktail
- Nutella puff pastry pies harmonize with the coffee’s flavors.
- Vanilla ice cream can be served alongside.
- Bourbon caramel bread pudding complements the warm flavors of the cocktail.
- Savory Options
- A small plate of cheese, especially bold varieties like sharp cheddar or blue cheese, balances the sweetness of the drink.
- Irish soda bread complements the flavors of Irish coffee and adds a hearty touch.
- Charcuterie with sliced cured meats and cheeses provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of the drink.
- Seafoods like grilled prawns or smoked salmon work well.
Variations
Numerous variations of Irish coffee exist. Each adds unique flavors and twists. Here are some notable variations:
- Spiced Irish Coffee
- Add cinnamon and nutmeg for warmth and spice.
- Maple Version
- Replace sugar with maple syrup. The syrup adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
- Iced Irish Coffee
- Serve over ice for a refreshing twist.
- Irish Cream Coffee
- Use pre-mixed liqueurs (Coffee liqueur (like Kahlua), Irish cream liqueur (like Baileys)) instead of whiskey and cream for a sweeter option.
- Café Irlandés (Spanish Variation)
- This version features distinct layers of whiskey, coffee, and cream. It is served with special equipment to achieve the layered effect.
- Frozen Banana Irish Coffee
- Ingredients: Cold brew coffee, Proper No. Twelve Irish whiskey, heavy cream, ripe banana
- Preparation: Blend ingredients with ice for a creamy, dessert-like drink.
- Additional Variations:
- The Killarney Krusher is an iced version with chocolate.
- The Night Owl combines mezcal with cold brew for a smoky flavor.
- The Italian Coffee features Italian whisky and Frangelico for a nutty profile
